Background: The soluble form of CD146 has been reported to be present in various
inflammatory diseases and displays pro-inflammatory properties. However,
little is known about sCD146 in multiple sclerosis.
Findings: Here we show that
sCD146 is significantly elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients
with active MS compared with that of inactive MS or patients with
non-demyelinating diseases. Moreover, abnormally increased sCD146 in the
CSF of active MS patients correlated with albumin quotient, MBP
antibody and MOG antibody from both CSF and sera. Importantly, the level
of CSF sCD146 is correlated with levels of inflammatory factors, such
as TNFα, IFNγ, IL-2, and IL-17A in the CSF. We also found that CSF
sCD146 might originate from membrane-bound CD146 on inflamed BBB
endothelial cells.
Interpretation: In addition, sCD146 promotes leukocyte transmigration
in vitro, at least in part by stimulating the expression of ICAM-1 and
VCAM-1 on endothelial cells. Our findings suggest that CSF levels of
sCD146 may provide a potential marker for monitoring disease activity in
MS patients.
CD146 (cluster of differentiation 146) also known as the melanoma cell adhesion molecule (MCAM) or cell surface glycoprotein MUC18, which present on brain blood vessles. Many adhesion molecules have a soluble form that is shed from the cells. This study suggests that it is involved in white cell migration into the brain. This was also recently shown, where MCAM could be targeted to block migration into the brain.
Where will this lead? I don't know maybe an alternative to Tysabri for the future.